Title: Manager of Labour Relations
Number of Direct Reports
2 Labour Relations Specialists
Reports to: Senior Manager – People and Culture
Job Purpose
Reporting to the Senior Manager of People and Culture, the Manager of Labour Relations serves as a key member of the Board’s People and Culture leadership team, providing leadership and strategic human resources advice to senior administration and system leadership to support organizational effectiveness and goal achievement. Responsible to lead a team of Labour Relations Specialists to support leaders at all levels of the organization while working with the bargaining units and non-unionized employees to foster a climate of positive and collaborative labour relations.
Accountabilities
MANAGE LABOUR RELATIONS FUNCTIONS: Oversees the board’s labour relations function and provides leadership and advice relating to all labour relations matters including grievance decisions, arbitrations, OLRB proceedings, collective agreements, and employment contract interpretation. Resolves disputes with the board’s 10 bargaining units through the grievance process. Maintains and builds positive relationships/ trust with all employee groups (Union and Non-Union) on behalf of the Board.
LEAD COLLECTIVE BARGAINING/ EMPLOYMENT CONTRACT NEGOTIATIONS: Leads the bargaining committee during collective agreement negotiations for teachers and education workers and terms and conditions of employment for non-union groups. Develops strategy and secures mandate required to direct negotiations. Leads the research and preparation for bargaining, drafts language for all proposals and coordinates the board’s bargaining team to achieve consensus in developing positions and reaching agreements. Responsible for administering terms and conditions of employment for the Principal and Vice Principal and Management, Professional and Administrative employee groups.
HUMAN RESOURCES MANAGEMENT: Responsible for leading a team of Labour Relations Specialists to support leaders at all levels of the organization in fulfilling their strategic priorities. Manage and participate in major strategic projects and initiatives which support the department strategy and contributes to the board’s strategic plan. Contributes to the development of People and Culture policies and procedures.
PREPARE AND DELIVER LEADERSHIP TRAINING AND COACHING OPPORTUNITIES: Develop and present in-house training seminars and workshops on various matters related to employment and labour relations and human resources for current and aspiring leaders at all levels of the board. Provide coaching and mentoring to all current and aspiring leaders in all areas of human resources and labour relations.
Knowledge and Skills
Deep knowledge of collective bargaining, labour relations and employment matters;
Expert knowledge of all relevant legislation, regulations and procedures;
Demonstrated, exceptional negotiation and mediation skills with the ability to maintain relationships throughout the process;
Interpersonal skills including the ability to work and communicate effectively with key stakeholders through the board, colleagues and external parties.
Demonstrates leadership for training, coaching and motivating teams, and ensuring timelines are met.
Sound judgement, analytical, problem solving skills, decision making, and organizational skills;
Written communications for drafting reports, collective agreements, and other complex or sensitive documents; and effective presentation skills
High degree of confidentiality required due to the nature of the position.
Computer literacy and use of specialized equipment/technology;
Education and Experience
Education
Post-secondary degree in Labour Relations, Industrial Relations, or related field and 5 years of labour relations experience, including experience in the collective bargaining process and interpreting collective agreements. Experience working in a large multi-union organization is preferred.
Certified Human Resources Leader (CHRL) professional designation is considered an asset.
Experience
5 years Labour Relations experience required
5 years Contract Administration required
Extensive experience in contract administration, labour relations, human rights, employment standards and a thorough knowledge/understanding of collective bargaining agreements is required;
Human Resources experience in Ontario’s Public Education Sector is considered an asset
The DDSB is committed to equity and inclusion in the recruitment and hiring of qualified staff who reflect the diversity of our region. We encourage submissions from candidates who represent the various dimensions of diversity. We are committed to providing barrier-free and accessible employment practices in compliance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). Should you require accommodation through any stage of the recruitment process, please make them known when contacted and we will work with you to meet your needs.
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